Becoming a UC Master Gardener

This information is available for your information. The 2018 application is closed, the next available application window will start in January 2020.

Are you a Santa Clara County resident who wants to learn more about eco-friendly, sustainable gardening practices and would enjoy sharing that knowledge with the home gardening public? If you would like to know more, sign up to receive an invitation to an informational meeting.

Eligibility Requirements

You must be a resident of Santa Clara County and at least 18 years of age.

Application Process

The application process has 3 steps:

Mandatory information session: This meeting provides an overview of the process and requirements for the program. Meetings will be held in June and July, 2018. Details will be emailed in early June to people who submit their name.

Application: A link to the application will be emailed to you following your attendance at an informational meeting.

Interview: We review applications, interview candidates, and select people for the new class.

Training Program

If you are accepted into the UC Master Gardener Program, you will be enrolled in a weekly training class held January–mid-May, 2019 (typically held on Thursdays from 9:30 a.m.–3:00 p.m.)

Volunteer Responsibilities

Following completion of training, UC Master Gardener volunteers must complete 50 hours of volunteer service during the first year in the program. In subsequent years, 25 hours of volunteer service and 12 hours of continuing education are required.